The National Marine Manufacturers Association today announced the induction of two industry veterans into its Hall of Fame, the organization’s most prestigious recognition.
Joe Miller, former CEO and principal at William F. Miller & Associates, a marine manufacturer representative agency, and Doug Smoker, president and CEO of Smoker Craft Boats, will be presented with the NMMA Hall of Fame Award during the International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition & Conference Industry Breakfast on Sept. 27 at the Tampa Marriott Water Street in Florida. The Industry Breakfast runs from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m.
IBEX runs Sept. 27-29 at the Tampa Convention Center.
According to NMMA, Miller joined his father’s manufacturer representative agency in 1968 and purchased the business in the early ’90s.
“You will never meet a person with more loyalty, generosity and compassion than Joe Miller,” Syntec Industries president Bill Watters said in a statement. “He is a legend in the marine industry for his dedication, energy and countless contributions. … A mentor and inspiration to industry peers and his team alike, who has left a lasting mark on recreational boating.”
Smoker joined the family business in 1972 and is a fourth-generation Smoker boatbuilder with 55 years of experience in the industry. NMMA said he played an integral role in the success and evolution of Smoker Craft.
“Recognized as a true gentleman and an inspiring leader by his peers, employees and community, Doug is unequivocally an industry icon,” said Bob Deputy, former president and CEO of Godfrey Marine. “Competitive at his core, Doug is constantly encouraging others to show up and give their best effort.”
Click here for more about the NMMA Hall of Fame and previous inductees.
